The Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 is a deep-V design and the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 is a modified-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 at 16,2 ft versus Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 at 18,5 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 tips the scales at 1 780 lbs - 231 lbs less than the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 at 1 549 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 has a 60-hp advantage over the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013's 90-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 carries 30 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Larson LX 860 O/B 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 8 passengers and at 18,5 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Larson LX 160 O/B 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.